7 Reasons Why Students Can Benefit From Learning a New Language

Language learning has become more important than ever in our increasingly globalized world. As businesses expand their operations to new markets, the need for employees who are bilingual or multilingual grows. But language learning isn't just for businesspeople. Students can benefit from language learning in a number of ways. In this article, we will discuss seven reasons why students should consider learning a new language!

Language skills

Firstly, language skills are one of the most important keys to success in today's economy. They allow students to communicate with people from all over the world, which is increasingly important in our globalized society. The ability to speak and understand another language is valued in many aspects of life from traveling to working in jobs that have an international component.

Cognitive skills

So, one of the language learning benefits is that it can actually improve your cognitive skills. A lot of times when we hear about cognitive skills, we think about things like memory and processing speed. And while language learning can help with those things, it can also help with other executive function skills. For example, problem-solving and task flexibility.

A lot of language learning happens through listening and speaking. And, as we know, listening requires paying attention. So, by learning a new language, students are actually training themselves to pay closer attention. Not just to the language they are trying to learn, but also to other things going on around them.

Being able to understand and use a second language also requires what’s called metacognition. Metacognition is basically thinking about your own thinking. And language learners have to do this all the time. They have to be aware of the language they are trying to use and how it works, in order to be able to use it correctly.

So, as you can see, there are a lot of cognitive skills that students can develop by learning a new language. And these are just a few of them. So, if you’re looking for ways to help your child or student improve their cognitive skills, learning a new language is definitely one way to do it.

Bilingualism

Another one of the language learning benefits is that it can help students become bilingual. Bilingualism has a lot of benefits, both cognitive and social.

Bilingualism has been linked to things like improved executive function skills and higher test scores. And socially, bilingualism can help students develop empathy and understanding for people from other cultures.

Cross-Cultural Understanding

Another benefit of language learning is that it can help students develop cross-cultural understanding. With the world becoming more and more connected, it’s important for students to be able to understand and appreciate people from other cultures.

Learning a new language can help students do this in several ways. For one, it can help them understand how language can shape the way we think about and see the world. For instance, if they learn literary Arabic, they will also find out more about the specific culture as well. It can also help them develop empathy for people who speak other languages and come from other cultures.

Making new friends

Naturally, when you immerse yourself in a new culture and language, you’re going to make some new friends along the way. You’ll learn about different customs and traditions and get to experience them first-hand with your new buddies. What’s more, research has shown that students who have studied abroad are more likely to land a job after graduation. So not only will you make some great memories, but you’ll also set yourself up for success in the future.

Improved grades
Another way that students can benefit from learning a new language is by seeing improved grades. This can be attributed to the fact that they are better able to remember lists and sequence. Studying a foreign language involves thinking in a logical and structured ways which can then result in better academic performance and standardized test results.

Better job prospects

In today's global economy, it is becoming increasingly important for students to be proficient in more than one language. Those who are able to speak multiple languages often have an advantage when it comes to finding a job. Employers are looking for employees who can communicate with a wider range of people and who have the ability to reach a larger audience. Moreover, there are many job opportunities that can involve speaking a foreign language or be in another country. These include positions such as diplomats, journalists, translators, tour guides, or working for a multinational corporation

There are many good reasons why students should learn a new language. It can help them academically, make them more employable, open up the ability for cross-cultural understanding and improve their cognitive skills. Learning a language is a great way to challenge yourself and can be very rewarding. So if you’re thinking of learning a new language, go for it!